WPD preview - Treaty United
Sean Russell wil undoubtedly have his own ideas on what success will look like for Treaty United this season, but simply building on last year would be a sensible approach.
Russell, who is the son of League of Ireland legend Martin, has taken over from Dominic Foley having coached within the club’s underage structure. This is a big test of his ability and will also offer an insight to his ambition for a team that achieved their best ever finish (7th) in the SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division last term.
With few veteran players still around – especially on the back of stalwart Esra Kangal departing – this will be a very young squad. But that is not a bad thing at all when one surveys the roster of talent available in the likes of Katie Lawlee, Cara Griffin and Hannah Saidi.
However, it is the next crop of youngsters who has those in the know really excited. Midfielder Madison McGuane (who played 20 times for the Ireland Girls’ Under-16s & Women’s Under-17s in 2024) is a special talent. The same can be said about Clare native Aibhlinn Cotter, who is an assured defender, and the lively Ciara Breslin, whose instinct in front of goal marks her out as someone who could be fast-tracked up the pecking order.
The Shannonsiders have brought in defender Clodagh Daly and winger Anna Dignam as good options, while their North American connections have once again led them to a couple of interesting signings in goalkeeper Kate Devine and forward Madelyn Robbins.
If Russell can add to the excellent work that his predecessor did then Treaty will definitely be a team to watch out for this season.
